After news recently surfaced relating to popular Brit Tom Watson’s withdrawal from a bout on next month’s BAMMA 7 lineup against Frank Trigg it’s likely more than a few fans in the U.K. hung their heads after hopes of seeing an area-fighter take on the UFC/PRIDE veteran. However, the dark cloud surrounding the cancelled clash got a silver lining earlier today when promotional officials announced fellow Englander < a href=http://fiveouncesofpain.com/2011/01/14/judo-jim-wallhead-latest-welterweight-added-to-bellator-season-4-tournament>Jim Wallhead had agreed to step in for Watson at the September 10 show.

“I’m really grateful BAMMA have given me this chance to fight on such a big card against a high level athlete like Trigg,” Wallhead said of his addition to the card. “It’s a test that I’m looking forward to but I hope he doesn’t think I’m just a late replacement who is there for a quick payday. I’m there to get back to where I belong…at the top, above people like him.”

Wallhead is coming off a decision loss to then-undefeated Rick Hawn earlier this year in the opening round of Bellator’s Season 4 welterweight tournament but had won twelve of thirteen fights before the defeat including eight straight. Nicknamed “Judo” Jim based on his success as an amateur Judoka and training under Olympian Neil Adams, the 27-year old holds an overall record of 21-6 with notable wins over Ryan Thomas, Jason Tan, and Che Mills.

absolutely gutted, i specifically got tickets JUST to see big Tom pummel Frank ‘the fuck’ Trigg into retirement. Looks like i’m selling the tickets now
Still expect Judo Jim to kncok his bitch ass out though